Frequently Asked Questions

1. Are pets permitted at County Parks & Trails?

Yes, pets are permitted at county parks and trails, but all pets must be on a leash not to exceed 6 feet. Pet owners are required to clean up after their pets.

2. May we feed the wildlife and waterfowl?

Feeding of wildlife and waterfowl is prohibited at all county parks. Please see our Regulations for more information.

3. Is fishing permitted?

Fishing is permitted at Blue Spruce Lake, Hemlock Lake and Pine Ridge Park (Tom's Run). Pennsylvania Fish & Boat Commission regulations apply at all county parks.

4. Is boating permitted?

At Hemlock Lake the PA Fish Commission permits electric motors and hand-propelled boats. All boats must be properly registered with the Commonwealth of Pennsylvania. Boating is not permitted at Blue Spruce Park.

5. Is swimming permitted?

Swimming is not permitted at any of the county parks.

6. Is hunting permitted?

Hunting is permitted at Hemlock Lake and portions of Blue Spruce Park, Pine Ridge Park, and the Buttermilk Falls Natural Area. PA Game Commission regulations apply. Hunters should obey all safety zones. We strongly recommend that all park visitors wear appropriate safety orange clothing during hunting season (various seasons are open from October through April). A map of Blue Spruce Park hunting areas is available on-line. For the other park sites, please contact the parks office to receive a description of designated hunting areas.

7. How are park facility reservations handled?

Reservations for park facilities are taken at the county parks administration office at Blue Spruce Park. Contact us for reservation information. Office hours are 7:00 AM to 3:30 PM, Monday through Friday.

8. How far in advance can reservations for park facilities be made?

We schedule the reservation of park facilities up to 51 weeks in advance. Groups using a park facility have one week after their use of the facility to reschedule for the next year. If no reservation is received the facility is available to the public on a first-come first serve basis.

9. Can I (we) volunteer to help at the parks?

We welcome volunteers throughout the year at all county parks. We have a variety of both short term and long term volunteer opportunities available for individuals and groups. Contact the parks office if you are interested in assisting us in our efforts.

10. Can we make a gift or donation to the parks?

We have been fortunate over the years to receive gifts and donations which have greatly benefited the county parks. From the donation of land for parks, funding for special projects, to the planting of memorial trees we can tailor a gifts or donation program which will meet your needs while benefiting future generations. All donations are tax deductible to the maximum extent permitted by law. See our Park Legacy Fund page for more information about contributing to the parks.

11. What does it cost to have a county park system?

Traditionally funding for the county parks has ranged from two and three percent of Indiana County's total budget. About 30 of Pennsylvania's 67 counties operate county parks. We strongly believe county parks are a good investment which helps improve Indiana County's overall quality of life. (A summary of the Indiana County 2006 budget can be viewed as a PDF file.)